Copper thieves strike again in south St. Louis

(KMOV) –- Police are investigating a rash of crimes in south St. Louis involving copper thieves stealing from local businesses.

The crimes are costing business owners thousands of dollars in security and higher insurance premiums. Police say they have already made arrests in the Soulard area, and hope to have an impact soon.

There have been assaults, car thefts and a lot of property damage that business owners say is hurting their bottom line.

The latest damage was to a roof of Edele and Mertz Hardware. A repairman working on a unit next door that had been tampered with discovered the theft, which will cost thousands to replace.

Police in the third district are working to help solve this problem. On Thursday, police and business owners met at Bar 101. There’s already a noticeable police presence, and a recent arrest should help.